headyversion

find the best versions of grateful dead songs

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grendel

Books and Music

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Submissions

15
It Must Have Been The Roses
Oct. 29, 1977
Evans Field House, Northern Illinois University

Almost every song from this show could be nominated for a "best ever." This heartfelt "Roses" is no exception.
11
Aiko Aiko
Dec. 31, 1987
Oakland Coliseum Arena

With the Neville Bros. Jerry gets his Big Easy on.
17
Promised Land
May 25, 1977
The Mosque

Perfection to end the first set of one of the truly great shows ever. Keith, Bobby, Jerry--the whole crew is in the pocket and rocking it hard.
15
Promised Land
April 1, 1980
Capitol Theatre

Both the best and worst version ever. Why? April Fool's gag: Bobby - keys, Brent & Jerry -drums, Billy - bass - Mickey -guitar Phil-vocals
75
Big River
May 9, 1977
War Memorial

They just could do no wrong at this show, Hidden among all the other gems is this monster River. Big solo work by Jerry; nice fills by Keith.
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Comments

Row Jimmy
March 20, 1977
Winterland Arena

I go back and forth between this one and 4-12-78 as to which is best...both feature unreal Jerry guitar work before "broken heart" refrain...this one a tad cleaner than Duke U....both outstanding.
Jack Straw
Jan. 11, 1979
Nassau Coliseum

My first-ever show, and this "Jack Straw" is what got me on the bus for good. Nice call.
Morning Dew
Oct. 12, 1984
Augusta Civic Center

Ditto. Have yet to hear a more powerful version, at least vocally (Barton Hall maybe has the better jam). This one is as emotional as it gets. Brilliant version ending one of the best 2d sets of all time.
Mississippi Halfstep Uptown Toodeloo
Nov. 6, 1977
Broome County Arena

can't believe this isn't #1 all-time with the most votes. Both bridge jams are monsters. Beats 5/7/77 (which is excellent) by a country mile
Scarlet Begonias -> Fire On The Mountain
May 13, 1977
Auditorium Theatre

Excellent choice and yes, a very underrated version. Unique in a very short transition jam but that leaves Jerry to expand on the opening riffs of "fire" instead. Really great version, often overlooked.
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